Why Is the Niobium Discovery at Luni Significant for WA1 Resources?
Wa1 Resources Ltd
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Why Is the Niobium Discovery at Luni Significant for WA1 Resources?

WA1 Resources Unveils High-Grade Niobium Discoveries at West Arunta Project

WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX: WA1) has announced significant advancements in its exploration efforts at the West Arunta Project, located in Western Australia. Recent assay results from the Luni carbonatite complex have further underscored the presence of a shallow, high-grade niobium blanket, with infill drilling confirming continuity in both the central and western zones.

Key intersections from the latest drilling campaign have notably exceeded previous findings, setting a robust foundation for a maiden Mineral Resource estimate expected in the June quarter of 2024.

Highlights of the Latest Drilling Results

Broad Intercepts Confirming Continuity: The latest 100m infill drilling results have confirmed the continuity of high-grade niobium mineralization at Luni, with standout intersections including 41. 1m at 1. 5% Nb2O5 and 124. 5m at 1.

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2% Nb2O5.

Upcoming Exploration Activities: Field activities are in full swing, with diamond drilling set to recommence shortly, focused on metallurgical testwork samples and further infill drilling. A second drill rig is anticipated to begin operations in April.

Metallurgical Advancements: The appointment of Clovis Sousa as Niobium Processing Advisor and the commencement of flotation testwork mark significant steps towards understanding the project's metallurgical viability.

Geological Insights and Drilling Achievements

The Luni carbonatite complex within the Sambhar Prospect Area has been the focus of WA1's exploration efforts, with 200 RC and 30 diamond drill holes completed by the end of the 2023 field season. The infill drilling aimed at the central and western areas has provided substantial evidence of the site's high-grade niobium potential. Notably, the drilling has begun to outline the carbonatite footprint and key mineralized zones, enhancing the geological understanding necessary for resource definition.

Strategic Focus on Metallurgy and Resource Estimation

WA1's strategic appointment of a seasoned niobium processing expert underscores the company's commitment to unlocking the Luni project's value through comprehensive metallurgical testwork. Initial flotation testwork aims to demonstrate the viability of separating key niobium-bearing minerals, a critical step towards defining the project's economic potential. This metallurgical focus aligns with the broader goal of transitioning from prospective to contingent resources, following the anticipated Mineral Resource estimate.

Future Exploration and Development Plans

With field crews already mobilized and drilling activities set to expand, WA1 Resources is positioned for an active exploration phase leading into the second quarter of 2024. The company plans to continue its resource definition work at Luni, alongside conducting essential environmental and geophysical surveys. The backlog of samples undergoing laboratory analysis is expected to yield further insights, contributing to the comprehensive data set required for the maiden Mineral Resource estimation.

WA1 Resources' latest exploration updates from the West Arunta Project highlight significant progress in delineating high-grade niobium mineralization at Luni. With the integration of advanced metallurgical testwork and strategic drilling campaigns, the company is well on its way to establishing a substantial Mineral Resource base. These developments not only enhance WA1's project portfolio but also reaffirm its position as a key player in the global niobium market, with the potential to deliver substantial value to shareholders and stakeholders alike.

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